Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book
Rate this book
I’m called Sin. People think there’s a reason for my name, and they might be right.

Most of us think we live in a world that runs on truth, politics, and laws. We don’t. We live in a world full of lies and deceit. That’s why some of us are here in the town of Chipley. Two hundred prisoners and Reese. Sweet, innocent Reese, who was taken and held captive in a shed for three years by my father.

Releasing her is dangerous, but I have to.

She’ll think she’s being saved. She’ll think she’s getting a second chance. She’ll think she’s finding a speck of light in the darkness her world has become.

But the light reveals what the darkness has concealed. And it isn't pretty.

In Shari J. Ryan’s Psychological Thriller, you’ll be left questioning the definition of truth.

86 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 15, 2015

18 people are currently reading
148 people want to read

About the author

Shari J. Ryan

65 books2,012 followers
Shari J. Ryan is a USA Today and International Bestselling Author of over 40 novels, with more than 700,000 copies sold and translations in 13 languages. She writes emotionally evocative WWII fiction inspired by true stories that have resonated with readers around the globe. Her work has earned Top 100, Top 10, and #1 chart rankings, as well as two Rone Awards.

As the granddaughter and great-granddaughter of Holocaust survivors, Shari brings a deeply personal connection to her work. Her stories are rooted in truth and remembrance, written to ensure history is never forgotten.

For Shari, writing is more than a passion; it is her way of expressing herself and connecting with others. She strives to share every emotion she experiences with each reader who picks up one of her books.

Shari holds a bachelor's degree from Johnson & Wales University and began her career as a graphic artist and freelance writer until 2012, when she discovered her true calling in novels.

Some of Shari’s bestselling books include The Nurse Behind the Gates, The Stolen Twins, The Bookseller of Dachau, The Doctor’s Daughter, and The Last Words Series—gripping stories that keep readers on the edge of their seats.

A lifelong Boston girl, Shari now lives in a small town in the suburbs with her adored husband and two incredible sons, who make her feel like the luckiest woman in the world.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
32 (37%)
4 stars
20 (23%)
3 stars
19 (22%)
2 stars
9 (10%)
1 star
6 (6%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
Profile Image for Carrie.
3,576 reviews1,698 followers
January 12, 2016
Reese was kidnapped at the age of fifteen. She's been held in a small shed only being given the basics to survive for the last three years with no contact with anyone. On her eighteenth birthday a young man by the name of Sin approaches Reese and helps her escape only to find that the shed is not the only thing holding her prisoner in this town.

This was one of those really tough books to rate when I was done reading. I'm giving the story 3.5 stars as I did enjoy the whole concept and flew through reading. It's a fairly short novella though and the only major complaint I have is that it ends rather abruptly without giving the reader many answers. The story had all the elements it needed to pull me in and want to know more about what was going on. It was suspenseful, intriguing and a bit of romance thrown into the mix. I just felt as if I had just gotten about 25-35% into a new book and ended up missing the ending. Being the first book of a new series it definitely caught my interest and would continue with the story if I get the chance though.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....

Profile Image for Barb Shuler.
Author 108 books160 followers
November 21, 2015
*Disclaimer* This book was read as it was put together and once again in full which the copy was provided by the author. I helped along with others to the content of this story. Working through plot bunnies with Shari is an adventure all its own. Just saying. In part am sort of bias but it really is a great story. Shari has a frigging winner here.

Okay, now that that is out of the way, I gotta say I thought Tango was the man to beat.. (coughs) I may have a new leading man in my dreams. (And if you know me you get why /that/ is funny) But Sin... oh dear sweet twisted little sin is the man that will make things all better. Well for Reese at least.

Three years of Reese's life was spent locked in a shed. Yep a shed. As in no matter the weather, she was in there, wasting away slowly but on a special day her savior showed up in a packet of holiness. His name was Sin. The hottie with the knowledge and skills to keep her safe. But there is a darkness to Sin. He is not all sunshine and rainbows. More like.. crusted bread and water. Hard on the outside, big softie on the inside. When is comes to Reese. Though I have to say that does not stop him from being an arsehole.. its a man thing as it is. His rough exterior really doesn't do much to put Reese off at first.

There is a bond between them that with time, through out the story they expand on. In good ways and bad. They both are good at pushing each others buttons. Reese has an inner bad-ass that we are just getting a good look at. her inner struggles to 'stay in control' and not let her feelings get in the way of what is happening makes her react in ways that I don't think Sin expects. She doesn't really shy away from the things she should yet she pulls back from him when she shouldn't. but in Reese's defense she is in a place that is completely foreign to her. She has no real idea of what death and danger look like but she is slowly getting a good glimpse o what could happen if they don't stick together and find a way out.

The biggest obstacle they both face now besides Snatcher.. is themselves.


Stay tuned for more in the near future.
Profile Image for Jenny B.
1,296 reviews29 followers
August 23, 2018
What a start to what I know will be an amazing story. I am completely mind blown and in love with the dark twisted nature of this book and I have been left with a great set up but way too many questions. Reese and Sin have an incredibly interesting relationship that I need to learn more about. The author has really stepped out of her "normal" writing for this dark book that definitely has left me intrigued and needing more.

Definitely ready for book 2
Profile Image for ZETTER.
1,157 reviews23 followers
December 29, 2015
MY SUNSHINE!!!

Holy cow!....what a way to end Book One :)

Reese has been held captive for three years by the Snatcher who turned out to be a caretaker of some mentally ill patients who didn't get their medicine because those in power thought it would be best to use the money for their own personal gain then actually help people in need.

Sin was accused of murdering his mother which lead him to get hauled off to the asylum but he escaped and the first thing he did was go to his father's place only to see Reese there...the one thing that was keeping him sane in that hellhole.

Together Sin and Reese were trying to escape but one wrong decision from Sin could mess everything up, I don't believe that Sin walked Reese into a trap but the latter might think so after the things Snatcher said.

Sin's father just doesn't like him and he will do anything to make sure that his son never find happiness and that what Reese is to Sin, his HAPPINESS.

Looking forward to book two, can't wait to see what's in store for Sin and Reese. Thank you Shari J. Ryan for taking us on this amazing ride. 5+++

Profile Image for Heather Blauth Ambrosino.
48 reviews6 followers
October 22, 2015
OMG! No Way Out: SIN has been so much fun! Shari J. Ryan released a new episode EVERY Friday for us to read. After every episode, she asked questions and took advice from readers, to listen to where we wanted the story to go. And Friday at noon, NEVER came FAST ENOUGH!! Each week was a different twist or turn and it ALWAYS kept me at the edge of my seat! I looooved the characters! Reese's personality was strong, determined and sometimes stubborn. And Sin was strong and sexy, but so mysterious. The end of book 1 was a shocker - and I CAN'T WAIT for book 2!! I NEED MORE!! :)
Profile Image for Kathleen Haran.
101 reviews10 followers
October 22, 2015
Wow just wow ...... i kept thinking oh what is going on ..... but then couldnt put it down and kept reading and was just i dont even know how to say how i was but i was hooked and that ending jesus ! i need more Shari ! like now i need to know what the hell is going on in that creepy place and what Sin has to do with it all ! x x x you are awsome Shari J Ryan !! x x x
Profile Image for Beezer09.
25 reviews
December 14, 2015
What the fuck just happened. I'm not even sure. I don't have anything to say. Oh my god I need more! So much more! Why did you bring this amazingness upon me and then just leave it hanging like that!?!?!?!
Profile Image for Ashley.
178 reviews43 followers
January 8, 2016
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Oh my goodness. The ending had me screaming. Ugh I loved this story and cannot wait to see what happens next.
Profile Image for Belinda Visser.
410 reviews4 followers
January 11, 2016
Wow, I enjoyed Sin No Way Out Book 1. This book is full mystery, twist and turns that leaves you on edge. I can't wait to continue reading book 2 to find some answers and see what else happens.
Profile Image for Megan =^..^=.
636 reviews7 followers
January 8, 2016
Awesome read!! Entertaining, compelling, and extremely unique!! 100% recommend!!
Profile Image for Pam.
962 reviews2 followers
September 5, 2018
This was a story I totally was not expecting at all and it was so good! The story keeps you trying to guess what is going on and things that are happening the whole time. From the beginning, it's like watching a story from another persons eyes. A little Hunger Games meets Escape from New York comparison.

Everything is a little confusing as Reese begins the story describing her surroundings and situation. But things are slowly revealed and you begin to understand what might be happening, without really knowing for sure because that's the point to this story.

I wasn't quite sure about Sin and his part in things, and I'm still not actually. But he seems to be a bit good and bad. When you find out his situation you don't know whether to trust him totally or want Reese to keep her distance.

There's only a little bit of romance, but it's probably a bit Stockholm syndrome at this point. Not sure whether she should trust anybody or not, but the situation she is in make it necessary to have at least one friend and Sin would be the one I'd choose too. It does end on a cliffy, so be prepared. I've ready to dive into the next installment of this No Way Out series for sure.
Profile Image for Amy Stephens.
Author 118 books551 followers
August 21, 2018
Shari Ryan is one of those authors that I'll read anything she puts out. She's proven she can take on any kind of subject, whether it be one of her hilarious rom-coms or classic romantic tales that leave the tears pouring down your face.

So, when I read the blurb for Locked In, I couldn't help but be intrigued. It's totally unlike anything I've ever read before by Shari, and even now that I've finished the first installment, I'm still trying to figure out what the heck is going on. It's certainly mysterious, as Shari doesn't give much background information about Reese, nor does she give away too much about Sin and his father Snatcher. And I'm also a bit confused if this is more of a mystery/thriller or a dystopian YA/NA. So many questions!!

I hope in the second installment we find out a lot more information because my mind is all over the place. The story line is very addicting and the plot just keeps getting thicker and thicker. I can't wait for all the pieces to come together!

Profile Image for Jolene St Germain Triggs.
762 reviews9 followers
August 19, 2018
Whoa! What did I just read?!? This was a scary twisted mind f*$% of epic proportions! Definitely not my usual jam, but I like this author so I figured I'd give it a shot. Can't say I'm disappointed, although I can't read it right before going to bed I have to pick up something sweet so that doesn't give me nightmares! This is fast moving and action packed and I have SO MANY QUESTIONS! But I'll be fine, I know the answers to at least SOME of my questions should be forthcoming in the next book.
Profile Image for Shaylene Sunday.
52 reviews
August 21, 2018
Reese was taken at the age of fifteen. She has been locked up for three years now. She hasn't seen a single person on that time frame. One evening an event takes place and Reese can try to leave. Sin tells Reese he will keep her safe if she will stay with him. Reese has no idea where she is. This is such a different series that I have read. I cant wait to read the next one in the series to find out what will happen with Reese and Sin. Crazy people and a crazy town!
Profile Image for Cristie Alleman.
131 reviews5 followers
August 20, 2018
Wow!! This book was not what I was expecting going in.. I can't wait to find out what happens in the next installment of this series.. Sin is just all kinds of mysterious and I want to know so much more about him and what happened in his past.. I'm also on pins and needles waiting to find out exactly why Reese was taken..
I would call this book a Mysterious Thrilling Page Turner..
Profile Image for Jacqualine Davis.
301 reviews6 followers
August 22, 2018
This book was so good! You don't know who to trust or believe. There's something between Reese and Sin, but I'm not sure if it's love, lust, or just the need for affection after being locked up for so long. I found myself turning the pages as quickly as possible. It does end with a cliffhanger. I can't wait for book 2!
Profile Image for Rhonda Ziglar.
4,400 reviews42 followers
August 24, 2018
5 OMG STARS!! I absolutely loved this book!! This was a darker story for this talented author and she has hit it out of the park. Shari J. Ryan can write any genre and turn it into a 5 star read. Reese and Sin have a story to tell you and it is full of mystery, scary times, tenderness and a mind blowing situation. I can't wait for book 2, I am dying to know what is happening.
Profile Image for Cassie.
1,565 reviews
August 20, 2018
Totally not what I was expecting, but it was so Good ~ I'm hooked, I need more...

This one is hard to review because I don't want to give too much away. Let's just say there are lots of unanswered questions, lots of shady characters and Reese is feisty enough to take it on. It was action packed and kept me flipping pages.

It is refreshing to see an Author write different genres, making me read something that I normally wouldn't just pick up on my own. My general idea and love for her work made me interested and I'm glad I took a chance, well done Shari!
Profile Image for Rebecca.
25 reviews
August 20, 2018
A little different to her usual books but Shari has delivered once again. I found the book very easy to read. It was reasonably paced and quite enjoyable. No twists as such but left us on a real cliffhanger. Can't wait to read the next in the series to see what happens with Reese and Sin.
Profile Image for Latifa Morrisette.
2,584 reviews63 followers
August 21, 2018
This book is really good! I love the storyline and so many other things but I don't want to give it all away. This book will leave you with so many questions than answers but it is totally reading this book.
Profile Image for Teresa.
699 reviews7 followers
August 22, 2018
Man oh man what a page turner! Can not wait for the next book!!

I have read a lot of Shari Ryan's books and let me tell you this is way different than I am used to but I absolutely love it!! Full of action and mind blowing.

Recommend!
98 reviews1 follower
August 21, 2018
Couldn't put it down . Can't wait for more.
Profile Image for April Vivas.
200 reviews8 followers
August 24, 2018
The first installment of this series has definitely had me on the edge of my seat!!! The story is geniunously psycho and I love it!!! Can’t wait to see what happens next!!!
Profile Image for Monica.
369 reviews20 followers
August 24, 2018
Absolutely love loved this book different from her other writing Shari's dabble in the darker side such a great success. Cannot wait to read the next one
Profile Image for Mystisith.
697 reviews10 followers
May 26, 2023
"Do you want to know what happens next?"
No. No, I don't. It's just a "feel bad" story, therefore not for me. I managed to finish it because it's very short but I'm out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Alicia Huckleby.
146 reviews1 follower
February 14, 2016
Im so torn on this review. I picked up Sin in Netgalley and in exchange have to give an honest review, so that i shall do. Overall I think the book was very promising I just had a few minor hangups.

But first here's what i really liked about it. I like the story premise and the mystery surrounding what is going on in Chipley. As readers we are still struggling to understand why these people came to live in the city exactly and what exactly happened to Sin’s mother and Reese’s mother, for that matter. I love how the author has taken some romance and shaken things up by adding a good level of creep factor and intrigue. That's why I was so drawn to the book in the first place.
The few hangups i have are some things that im hoping may be answered in other installments of the story. It seems as if Sin has been in love with Reese before he even encountered her or has fallen in some instalove. From his point of view he talks about how crazy he is for her and she is the most important thing to him but yet from the readers pov the two have had a very small amount of time they been interacting, like half of a day. I also felt like the story moved a little fast. While I love action in ny books and appreciate authors doing this to keep a readers attention, I also find it necessary to slow down a bit and put a little of backstory in so that we can get a better grasp as what is going on in the scene and form more of an emotional attachment to the characters themselves. At times I felt confused. Like how did we just get from there to here? Although I realized it is meant to be a mystery, it just moved a little too fast at times. Sin also bothers me. He goes from hot to cold to hot towards Reese and I dont know if this is part of the story, whereas maybe he has some internal conflict going on that will be revealed later in the story or if it was the story speed and that this is the end result. Im hoping its the former instead of the latter.
I also felt like like H and h could have used a little more demention to them and maybe thats because I felt like I was lacking enough story development.

I really wanted to love this story. I really did. And although I didn't hate it I found that I really was just indifferent because of the speed of it. I formed no attachment or even empathy to either character. However I do appreciate that alot has to go into writing a book and an author gives a piece of themselves when they do that so Im giving this at least 3 stars. I just felt like with a little little more development and slowing it down just a smidgen I would have liked it a whole lot more! I almost felt cheated in a way. Not because I feel like the author owes me a thing but simply because I can see potential for such an outstanding book if a few small changes were made. I will finish the story if it comes across my path so that I can see how it plays out, but unfortunately if I dont i'm really not going to notice it missing.
Profile Image for Katherine Paschal.
2,304 reviews63 followers
March 24, 2016
Reese has been held captive for the last 3 years in a dark shed, with no answers as to why she is a prisoner. On her 18th birthday, she sees a new man through her crack in the wall, someone who wishes her a happy birthday. This man is Sin, and with his help, she will leave behind her dark cell.

I have read another book by this author and very much so appreciated it, just like I did with this one. The author is able to blend well developed, interesting characters with a mysterious, totally messed up plot. I can honestly say I was not let down by this story, which in actuality was more like the first part of a novella at only 70ish pages. Somehow, I was able to get into this snippet of a dark, creepy world, where there was almost no explanations for anything, only more questions were raised. My only complaint for this book was that it was too short because I wanted more, there was a terrible cliff hanger ending, and I have no idea how to get my hands on the next volume so I can see how everything plays out.

Reese was an interesting blends of innocence, wariness and competency. I expected her to be broken, as she first gave the impression, but then she showed a surprising amount of spunk and determination that I never expected. Sin on the other hand, was much more of a mess. He is accused on murder and was locked in a mental institute (not necessarily for said murder) and at times acted like a wounded animal, ready to bolt at any minute. Mind you, he was a large, hot and totally ripped wounded animal, but I was still never sure what would happen next.

The ending was so mean to leave me hanging. I really want to read more and see what kind of mess further develops from this situation. I have yet to be disappointed by this author and would read pretty much anything by her at this point.

I received this title from the author in return for my honest review.
For more reviews visit my blog at http://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com/
Profile Image for Heather 123.
954 reviews7 followers
July 19, 2016
I was disappointed in this book. The description and the overall story line had a promise in it, but the book fell short.

Reese is a young woman (18) who has been kept in a shed for the last 3 years after being kidnapped. There isn't much of a backstory given (including how she was kidnapped or why) which was disappointing. Suddenly, Sin appears from no where (having been locked up for the last 3 years), beats his father and releases Reese from the shed.

He seems to have an immediate connection with Reese although the reason is not clear. He saw her one time before releasing her from the shed, yet seems to almost be falling in love with her. They start traveling which is when we learn that they are trapped in a town for the criminally insane after the hospital overflowed.

Things not clear to me: why did they start traveling only to eventually turn around and return to the basement? Sin knew there was no way out yet he brought her out there anyway. It's unclear why Reese was kidnapped, what happened to her mother, what happened to Sin's mother or even what happened to Sin.

I was really getting into the story when it suddenly ended. The book was really short as it was, but at 82% the next page was a preview of some other book (not part of this series). I felt that the author may have ended it so soon just to get readers to buy the second book. I think there could have been more depth given to the characters and more answers given to the readers before moving to the second book in this series.

** ARC received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review **
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.